Part 2: Beginner Mountain Biker's Guide

Beginner Mountain Biker's Guide: What do I need to know?

So you've decided to take up mountain biking? This world can be scary for a newcomer. But we're here to help you get the correct gear, learn some fundamental skills, and stay safe while out on the trails so you can have a great time! We'll go through the fundamental skills that will give you the confidence to ride and enjoy the mountain bike trails in this installment of our three-part course.

SKILLS:

Here are the top three abilities that every mountain biker, from beginner to expert, should know and practice in order to get faster and more confident!

1 – Assault position – arms and knees bent, butt hanging above saddle, feet equally weighted at 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock, eyes looking forward

2 – Bike/body separation – improves balance by keeping body weight over the bottom bracket, i.e. when climbing, scoot your butt forward on the saddle, when descending, push your butt off the BACK of your saddle, when riding a step-up, move your hips towards the handlebars, and when cornering, lean the bike but not the body.

3 – Looking ahead – this will allow you to ride quicker – look up the trail while scanning the trail in front of you; keep your eyes on the path you want to go, and not on the rock you want to avoid!